Clinton, NY – Christopher Moynihan, a man previously pardoned by former President Donald Trump for his involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot, was arrested for allegedly threatening House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Moynihan, 34, stands accused of making a terroristic threat after being reported for wanting to kill the New York congressman.
New York State Police acted on a tip received from the FBI that Moynihan had issued a threat against Jeffries. A criminal complaint revealed that Moynihan sent messages expressing his desire to “eliminate” the congressman before an upcoming speech.
In the texts, Moynihan reportedly stated, “Hakeem Jeffries makes a speech in a few days in NYC I cannot allow this terrorist to live.” He also mentioned, “Even if I am hated, he must be eliminated, I will kill him for the future.”
Jeffries was scheduled to speak at the Economic Club of New York on Monday. Following the threats, he characterized them as “credible” and expressed concern that Moynihan intended to follow through with his threats.
On Sunday, officers arrested Moynihan and transported him to the Dutchess County Justice Center where he faces bail set at $10,000 in cash, $30,000 bond, or an $80,000 partially secured bond. He is expected to appear in court on Thursday.
Moynihan was previously sentenced to 21 months in prison for obstruction of an official proceeding of Congress related to the January 6 events. He was identified as rifling through items on a senator’s desk during the Capitol breach, claiming to search for information that could be used against lawmakers.
Moynihan’s activities during the riot raised significant security concerns, which the congressman highlighted in his statement. Jeffries remarked that violent individuals released from pardons require law enforcement attention to maintain safety in the communities.